Proposed legislation in Virginia would amend that state's animal welfare code to include care practices for horses and other livestock, but some equine rescue operators say the bill's language is confusing.

Introduced on Jan. 12, HB 1541 would require owners of agricultural animals to provide their livestock with feed to prevent malnutrition, water to prevent dehydration, and veterinary care to prevent impairment of health or physical function. Under the bill, owners would not be required to provide feed or water when it would be customarily withheld or when a veterinarian prescribes that provisions be eliminated or restricted.

Bill sponsor State Representative Bobby Orrock said the legislation is intended to define normal appropriate horse keeping practices. It is also designed to insulate owners from unfounded animal neglect complaints lodged by individuals unfamiliar with customary horse keeping procedures.

But Patricia Muncy, operator of the Roanoke Valley Horse Rescue Inc. in Hardy, Va., believes the bill's language is confusing because it does not adequately differentiate between specific horse care practices and appropriate care for other livestock such as cattle